Videotape might help solve fatal Hollywood subway stabbing

The attack sent passengers scurrying to the rear of the rolling subway car as the victim, Jesse Garay, 59, of North Hollywood, collapsed, his blood pooling on the floor.

The suspect had been arguing with Garay, and was reportedly advised by a pair of young female passengers on how he should escape.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, which patrols the area's public transit system, also appealed to the public Saturday for information on the suspect, who bolted from the train at the Hollywood and Vine station about 7:30 p.m.

Sheriff's Lt. John Hocking said it was too early in the investigation to say whether the stabbing was in self-defense. "Investigators want to talk to anybody who witnessed the stabbing or can help with the investigation in any way," Hocking said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the homicide bureau at (323) 890-5500.